A Wednesday Orlando Sentinel report on a hiring spree at the burgeoning Orange County, Florida Sheriff’s Office quoted Sheriff Jerry Demings unironically describing his department as a “paramilitary organization.”

From the story:

An improving economy has allowed Demings to open 125 positions that have been frozen since 2009. So far, 60 have been filled as the pool of qualified applicants grows with service members leaving the military and entering civilian life, said the Sheriff’s Recruiting and Background Manager Mary Ann Salazar.

“We are a paramilitary organization, so hiring veterans makes sense, and its important to the sheriff to bring in these highly skilled men and women,” Salazar said.

Demings said more than half of the deputies hired into one of the $38,000-$40,000 per-year positions come from a military background. The sheriff’s comments demonstrate an obvious confidence in the quality of his new hires, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

But it’s incredible how oblivious more and more officers, police chiefs and sheriffs – many of them conscientious and well-intentioned – are becoming to the changing character of law enforcement in America.

The same goes for the general public. The Sentinel report eschews even a passing mention of the trend, and doesn’t make any connections between Orange County’s hiring pattern and the overall movement, Nationwide, toward the militarization of our civilian public servants in the law enforcement field.

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Ben Bullard

Reconciling the concept of individual sovereignty with conscientious participation in the modern American political process is a continuing preoccupation for staff writer Ben Bullard. A former community newspaper writer, Bullard has closely observed the manner in which well-meaning small-town politicians and policy makers often accept, unthinkingly, their increasingly marginal role in shaping the quality of their own lives, as well as those of the people whom they serve. He argues that American public policy is plagued by inscrutable and corrupt motives on a national scale, a fundamental problem which individuals, families and communities must strive to solve. This, he argues, can be achieved only as Americans rediscover the principal role each citizen plays in enriching the welfare of our Republic.

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FreedomFighter

“But it’s incredible how oblivious more and more officers, police chiefs and sheriffs – many of them conscientious and well-intentioned – are becoming to the changing character of law enforcement in America.”Militarization of police is a crime against the public, the government is not at war with the citizen, and if it is, the government is illegitimate and criminal.Laus DeoSemper FI

Combat Veteran Seabee

They will really be surprised when the citizenry says, enough, and they realize how truly out numbered they are! Admiral Yamamoto, the brilliance behind the sneak attack on Pearl Harbor, was quoted as saying, as he refused to send the third wave of attack planes, “I fear that we have only managed to awaken a sleeping giant.” HELLO!!!! Later on in the war, he was also asked about plans to attack the “Mainland United States.” His answer, ” I have no plans to invade the mainland, U.S.A., as there is a rifle behind every blade of grass!” Take heed dems, you are definitely out numbered, and by the way, any law written and passed, must conform to our Constitution, and Bill of Rights! If not, it is ILLEGAL!” When the people fear the government, it is called Tyranny, When the government fears the people, it is called LIBERTY/FREEDOM!” Don’t let oblowhole, or the Rino’s/ dems take a damn thing from us! Bark, and Bark real loud, as nobody in their right mind would disregard a really, LOUD BARKING DOG! How many Barking Dogs are we? More than the “ONE!” Why in my mind, as it has always been, Stalin, Hitler, Pol Pot, Eedi Amin, and so on, why are people so afraid to do what is truly needed? A few officers of really true historical repute, Rommel, Von Stoffel etc.got rid of their problems in a way. Von Stoffel was shot, Rommel had to take poison! But hitler knew it was wrong, so he gave him a “State Funeral,” to honor the hero he actually was! Hussein of late also? Why didn’t ONE Person Of Balls OFF HIM? Go For the betterment of their country! One shot , One kill, my story! Your country is going down the tubes, you have the world amassing an army to knock your dick into the dirt, but you still let him live as, he in essence, signed the death certificates of his army This is what the police State looks like before, we, as Americans say, GFY!!!!!!!! Need a translation? “Go eff youselves!”

Vis Fac

Are you any kin to me? I didn’t think I had any living blood relatives but many a former service man I call my brother.

The Only Thing Necessary for the Triumph of Evil is that Good Men Do Nothing–Edmund Burke

A republic is defined as a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president…Our republic no longer exists…A democracy can best be described as two wolves and a sheep deciding what to have for lunch with a well armed sheep contesting the vote!

Libertas inaestimabilis res est

Semper-Fi

Dale H Brown

Force Recon–I may not be any blood kin to you , but I was a Marine long ago ( Korea), and even at 80 I can still see and move fairly well –so there are still many of us Ol’ Jarheads not liking what is going on presently—and most remember the education the Corps gave us–but we need the folks to start saying no more BS from the government.I just hope the Marines of today will defend the Constitution and citizens like we did in our time

Vis Fac

Brother Brown: I salute you we might not be blood but certainly brothers. We marines know what true patriotism is and what this country needs to continue to exist.It is gratifying to know at 80 you can still move around well no doubt because staying fit and discipline has been etched in your sub-conscience since boot camp. I’m in my 70’s and still compete with those younger pups

I would urge everyone to serve not necessarily in the Corps as you know the Corps is not for everyone but serve to learn what this country is all about and garner discipline and above all respect. If I had my way service would be mandatory as it is in Israel.

Semper-Fi Marine

Dale H Brown

Force Recon,100% agreement on mandatory Military Service –have always believed that –always believed it was my obligation to serve–specially when Korea started–but the way the gov’t is now I have no respect for it –it seems they couldn’t care less what the Veterans of this country have done to keep this country the best in the world –it is a sad time in the US history–the people have to stand up and say no more—I am not as sharp today as I was back in the ’50’s but I can still do what the Corps taught me to be a Rifleman, if the time comes I will join in keeping my oath that I took so many years ago–Semper Fi Marine, best to you and yours

Vis Fac

I don’t think you are a slow as you think you are and could still probably field strip your M-1 blind folded I love my M-1 and practice with it often would most definitely qualify expert at the range today.We Vietnam Vets were spat on when we returned home I remember Korean veterans being welcomed.Our current CIC has no respect for the troops as I remember him saying that knew what they were getting themselves in for when they signed up and shouldn’t receive any benefits. You can imagine how infuriated I got after those remarks.Semper-Fi Marine keep you rifle ready and spirits high

Dale H Brown

Force Recon,I too remember what took place with Vietnam Vets–it was shameful to say the least –and today there are idiots that still use some of the terms thrown at those Veterans–but no one has ever used any of those words in front of me , if they had, they would have understood exactly where the bear crapped in the woods—I was at Pendleton when the first troop ship docked in San Diego, with the first Korean War Vets to return to the States, it was big deal then that day , but if that ever was celebrated like that again I don’t know –for few weeks later I was leaving that same port for Korea—when I cam home , it was just that , I came back to the States , the Red Cross , had a few ladies that gave us a coffee and a donut at that dock in Frisco–other than that I saw no one celebrating our homecoming–we just got on a bus to Treasure Island for processing for leave and assignment to new duty station–the only ones I knew that would be other than indifferent to my return , was my family, parents , and sisters and brothers–and it was 60 years later that I learned of their feeling , by reading a letter to my Mother from my Father-There is a book , written by HENRY BERRY, by the name of HEY, MAC,WHERE YA BEEN?–it is about the memories of U.S. MARINES in the Korean War. It is a good read , from interviews he had with the Marines–Yes I could field strip an M1 even now and zero it in with out too much time taken –even though I have not touched an M1 in many years –I have looked at them but they are just too expensive for my wallet now –I do have 30-30 though , it would just require my target to be a little closer—-Semper Fi Marine —stay well –

Vis Fac

Dale Korea was still fresh in everyone’s mind when I set foot on Paris Island. References to Frozen Chosin where Marines held off a vastly superior force of Chinese regulars and and North Koreans were highlighted as one of the Corps finest days.Although Vietnam was completely different there were many similarities We didn’t put up with freezing conditions we were exposed to constant humidity rains and blistering heat.One similarity was we faced waves and waves of Chinese hopped up on opium that would rung through our positions resulting in fierce hand to hand. I remember vividly the smell of opium on their breath and what some had just eaten.

I have my M-1 am deadly accurate at 100yds consistently hitting tennis balls with iron sights. In my opinion the finest battle rifle made. I also have an AR that I built the rounds seem puny compared to the .30-06. and in reality are not effective further than 300 meters.I’m going to look into the book you suggested Take careSemper-Fi Marine

proud Infidel

what happened to andy griffith ?

Combat Veteran Seabee

He’s a liberal who advocates obamacare for aarp anyway, so who the eff cares!

Johnny Geetar

Ditto, Seabee. He was a leftist piece of [expletive deleted].

dangkids

And Barney?

Vis Fac

Gone too Many years ago.

Libertas inaestimabilis res est

Semper-Fi

Vis Fac

He passed away last year

Libertas inaestimabilis res est

Semper-Fi

Johnny Geetar

Who cares? He was a commie!

Ness

I see the gestapo is making a comeback. Their answer to wrongdoing is I was only following orders, just like at the Nuremberg Trials.

Wambli525

No Shxt Sherrif Sherlock! … when did you figure that out. With Demmings as sheriff, OCF gets a taste of the GESTAPO, as will every other major city and county in the United States. Where is Officer Friendly when you really need him?

Karolyn

Uh, it wasn’t the Sheriff who said that; it was Mary Anne Salazar.

Ol Grey Wolf

The Sheriff’s Voice…

http://www.OlGreyGhost.Blogspot.com/ Ol’ Grey Ghost

Well, I hate to be the one to rain on anyone’s parade, but as a former police officer I can tell you that modern law enforcement agencies are indeed para-military organizations and have been such since their inception in the 19th century. Their organizational charts, chains of command, and even the ranks used are all borrowed from the military.

The part that many aptly complain about is the blurring of the line between law enforcement, meant to keep the peace, and the military, meant to inflict damage and death on an enemy. Let’s put the power to protect back with the people through the militia, which elect their own officers. That will never be allowed to work because there are too many people making good money off the system as it is…

Vis Fac

What you say is quite true for police agencies have been recruiting from the military ranks to minimize training time and costs . Since 1975 Police departments notably SWAT teams have access to military hardware including armored vehicles FLIR night vision and drones. Weaponry is top of the line and latest of technology Computing and communications are second to none and their assault tactics are those used to assault heavily armed reinforced bunkers. If they cannot get a single suspect in custody from his hiding place the commit arson to burn them out. COWARDS

I cant resist I have to post this again: It’s Funny Long and Sadly True how we see police

The point of this isn’t to judge whether cops are justified in doing what they do. This article has nothing to do with police training. And this isn’t just about American cops. This is about the perception that we, the public, have of you when you perform the following actions. It doesn’t matter if you disagree with these perceptions, because right or wrong, they exist. The point of this posting is to simply let you know that we’re watching, and this is how we see things.

1. When ten of you show up to make one arrest, it makes you looklike cowards. On my way home from a bike ride, I saw three arrests being made in under an hour in a relatively safe part of the city. At one of the incidents, eight police cruisers responded to make one arrest. The guy who was arrested was ejected for being too drunk in a bar. Just one guy and he was drunk. He had a stupid moustache, hadn’t hurt anyone and was drunkenly walking home when he was tased and tackled by 3 cops before 6 police cruisers showed up in addition to the two that were there, for a total of 8 cruisers and 10 cops. The man was unarmed. How much backup do you need? It’s one guy. If you can’t handle one drunk guy by yourself, you shouldn’t be a cop. Training tells you otherwise? Well stop being trained by sissies.

2. When you tase somebody who IS NOT trying to escape, it makes you look like lazy cowards. A taser IS NOT a remote-control forpeople. Want to talk to someone? Then walk over to them and talk. Don’t tase them and expect them to cooperate. Also, when someone is being tased and is writhing in cardiac arrest on the ground, they aren’t “resisting arrest” by not getting on their knees and neatly kowtowing to your demands. They’re incapacitated. You look like idiots barking orders at them when they can’t move. Being a cop has certain risksassociated with it. If you aren’t comfortable with those risks, don’t take the job. Always trying to minimize your risk of injury at the expense of others by being a taser-happy lunatic makes you look like lazy sissies.Tasing everyone you see because they might pose a risk to you is like spraying everything with a fire extinguisher so it doesn’t catch fire. Part of the problem might be that many cops are overweight and out of shape. If you fatsos can’t chase someone down, then you shouldn’t be cops. Studies have shown that not being a lardo is just as effective as using a taser.

3. When you set up speed traps, it makes you look like you don’t have anything better to do. I get happy every time I see a speed trap, because I assume it means all criminals have been locked up, you’ve caught the guys who broke into my car on three separate occasions and my stolen property will be returned shortly, right idiots? Good job guys, take a break and make some scratch for the city. Because why the hell else would you be sitting on your butt in a ditch if that wasn’t the case? People who speed are awesome. The last thing this world needs is more slow drivers. Traffic jams occur because of idiots braking prematurely And when you pull people over, how about doing it in a place that doesn’t obstruct traffic? You know what’s just as “unsafe” as speeding? Having to swerve into another lane because your stupid car is blocking traffic. Every time I pass another cruiser parked in two lanes, backing up traffic for miles, it makes me literally punch myself in the jaw until I pass out.

4. When you give out imbecilic tickets for rolling through stop-signs at 3 AM, or closing down lemonade stands, it makes us think you’re morons. We know that “the law is the law.” We also know that you’re not instruction-executing robotic automatons. When you harass us with nonsensical fees and fines, it makes us question your judgment. We know that this kind of trash is all about the money. Remember that case in Florida where a pair of LEOs closed down a lemonade stand operated by a 6 and 9 year old girl, because they didn’t have a permit?The legal age for entering into contract in the United States is 18. So that effort to charge them fees by making them apply for a permit? Illegal. Law is the law, right? Arrest yourselves.

And speaking of nepotism…

5. We know you guys use the buddy system to get out of speeding tickets. And it infuriates us to no end. Cops have a code that basicallyamounts to always letting fellow cops go. When a cop pulls over an off-duty officer, the officer who was pulled over discreetly flashes his badge to let him know that he’s on the force, and he’s simply let go. You think we don’t know what’s going on, jerk-wads? It’s a courtesy not extended to anyone else, lest the officer is having a particularly good day and isn’t PMS-ing all over the highway. Sometimes you write tickets for going 1Mile over the speed limit, sometimes it’s 10 Miles. Then when you get called on doing something stupid like writing aticket to someone for a law that shouldn’t be enforced and rarely is (like jay-walking in New York), you hide behind your tired mantra that it’s the law and that you have to be consistent. Except when you aren’t.

6. When you flash your lights just to get through intersections, you look like scumbags. We’ve all followed cops who’ve done this, only to see them park their cruisers for coffee or lunch. And speaking of lunch…

7. When you park in a red zone to eat, it makes you look like lazy scumbags. The argument can be made that police officers need to be near their cruisers at all times in case of an emergency. Fine, but that doesn’t entitle you to eat at the most popular restaurants. If you want to eat at some trendy restaurant, park at a meter and pay, like everyone else. Can’t find a meter? Tough luck, go someplace else. Doctors, surgeons, rescue workers and security all have important jobs where people’s lives are at stake, and you don’t see their cars popped up on the curb, obstructing traffic and parked illegally so they can fill their fat faces with lunch. We know you’ll never get written a ticket (see #5),it infuriates us, and it makes us trust you less, and cooperate less.

Now this is the part where I say “I know that police officers have a tough job,” but they don’t. Being a cop isn’t hard, it’s dangerous. There’s a difference. Being an engineer, teacher or airline pilot is hard. Being a logger, deep sea crab fisher, coal miner or firefighter is hard and dangerous. Being a cop is dangerous, but usually not hard. Driving around, issuing moronic tickets and filling out paperwork isn’t hard, it’s annoying.

This is also the part where I say “now I know that most cops are good,” but I don’t. I only know two cops in real life, and they’re both awesome, but so is anyone I choose to call my friend. Most cops I see abuse their power every day by parking illegally, talking on their cell phones while driving, drifting in and out of lanes without turn signals, flashing their lights to get out of intersections and power tripping like crazy. If you’re a cop who’s reading this, rather than being butt-hurt by people’s perceptions of you, do something to change it. Write a fellow officer a ticket. Stick your neck out for us, rather than your colleague for a change. Do the right thing. We notice.

And as for us: record cops. Record them all the time. Record them even if they’re not doing anything. Cops are cracking down on this and they’re trying to change the laws to make it illegal so they can’t be held accountable for breaking the law. They look up your plates every time they’re behind you at a stop, even if you haven’t done anything, just to check up on you. It’s time we started checking up on them. Who watches the watchers, if you will.

Libertas inaestimabilis res est

Semper-Fi

http://www.OlGreyGhost.Blogspot.com/ Ol’ Grey Ghost

Gee, all I was saying was look up the word, “paramilitary,” in a dictionary. Thanks for getting that load off your chest…

Vis Fac

I Was not born yesterday and know what paramilitary means you can broaden the term to include high school and college ROTC Some scouting organizations can be considered paramilitary depending upon interpretation

The point of that post (which obviously went over your head) is to point out some subtle and not so subtle changes in the attitude police have adopted of late. The motto “to protect and serve” should be eradicated from all police vehicles plaques and not referenced at all. There is nothing in the police charter that mentions protection. Any protection offered is for their own. Service is another joke since when is breaking into your home stopping and frisking you without probable cause and without warrant considered “service”?

Since when are police allowed to steal people’s property (confiscate video and cell phone equipment) and make up laws to suit their whims. How many times have you seen police bait people into “phony assault” by repeatedly pushing someone than waiting for that person to “lay a finger” on the assaulting officer so charges of assault on a police officer can be filed.

More to the point we see this all the time and incidences are escalating, and government is eagerly waiting the day it can proclaim martial law.

The Only Thing Necessary for the Triumph of Evil is that Good Men Do Nothing–Edmund Burke

A republic is defined as a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president…

Our republic no longer exists because we have an omnipotent self centered clown in the Oval office who is as unconstitutional as anyone can be. Anyone thinking we still live in a republic had best take notice of what OUR elected officials are doing WITHOUT OUR consent. Our republic no longer exists because the people no longer have power!

…A democracy can best be described as two wolves and a sheep deciding what to have for lunch with a well armed sheep contesting the vote! This too shall be a fond memory for our rubber stamp liberally controlled congress is eagerly waiting to disarm us.

Libertas inaestimabilis res est

Semper-Fi

http://www.OlGreyGhost.Blogspot.com/ Ol’ Grey Ghost

I got your point, agreed with it, and thanked you for making it. Nothing you could write would go over my head unless you put it on a piece of paper, folded it into an airplane, and then threw it into the sky…

Vis Fac

I do not comment to deliberately put anyone down (unless I am first assailed) I try to stimulate people into thinking and realizing what is happening around the country.

I guess my biggest pet peeve is apathy followed closely by stupidity. If I can effect a few people and that in turn effect others than thats a good thing.

I wish you and yours the best of everything

The Only Thing Necessary for the Triumph of Evil is that Good Men Do Nothing–Edmund Burke

A republic is defined as a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president…

Our republic no longer exists because we have an omnipotent self centered clown in the Oval office who is as unconstitutional as anyone can be. Anyone thinkingwe still live in a republic had best take notice of what OUR elected officials are doing WITHOUT OUR consent. Our republic no longer exists because the people no longer have power!

…A democracy can best be described as two wolves and a sheep deciding what to have for lunch with a well armed sheep contesting the vote! This too shall be afond memory for our rubber stamp liberally controlled congress is eagerly waiting to disarm us.

I viewed your blog and there is something to be said of anarchy good and bad as well with a democratic republic. If our nation would adhere to constitutional law our society would not be polarized and life would be more livable.As our greedy and power hungry politicians have their put their own interests ahead of following rule of law we have steadily become enslaved and abused.

We have forgotten our roots and history and continue to repeat events and policy that has been destroying this nation. We let apathy take the place of responsibility and let those who would abuse us to continue.

I do not see a rosy future for the US I see violence and anarchy for several years to come so we best be prepared.

The Only Thing Necessary for the Triumph of Evil is that Good Men Do Nothing–Edmund Burke

A republic is defined as a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president…

Our republic no longer exists because we have an omnipotent self centered clown in the Oval office who is as unconstitutional as anyone can be. Anyone thinkingwe still live in a republic had best take notice of what OUR elected officials are doing WITHOUT OUR consent. Our republic no longer exists because the people no longer have power!

…A democracy can best be described as two wolves and a sheep deciding what to have for lunch with a well armed sheep contesting the vote! This too shall be afond memory for our rubber stamp liberally controlled congress is eagerly waiting to disarm us.

Libertas inaestimabilis res est

Semper-Fi

http://www.OlGreyGhost.Blogspot.com/ Ol’ Grey Ghost

“We have forgotten our roots…”

As you and I remember them, WE haven’t forgotten them, but the problem lies in that our history has not been passed down properly to the younger generations. As you and I and others of like mind work together, we can correct that “oversight…”

Vis Fac

The reason our history hasn’t been passed down is because we relied on our public schools to teach history and government.

Ever since the late 60’s early 70’s when public schools became liberal indoctrination camps “Traditional education” was abandoned in favor of “progressive instruction”.

Schools no longer teach Cursive or creative writing skip over truncate and eliminate history do not teach The Constitution or real government. Gone are advanced math and science. Gone are the days of being told you failed because you did not do the required work

What is taught now conforms to liberal political correctness encompassing LGBT Sensitivity training Zero Tolerance and teaching students how to promote ODUMBOCARE and stroking little johnny’s ego so he doesn’t lose self esteem by passing him to the next grade even though he isn’t bright enough to comprehend the next grate level.

Now we have liberal one dimensional idiot-ology replacing traditional education that is centered in addressing and encouraging dependence on the government, dumbing down and producing the functionally illiterate.

This is no accident; stupid people cannot discern facts form fallacy they are destined to believe what others tell them and are therefore easy to control. Liberals have been planning this since after WWII and they seem to have succeeded.

The Only Thing Necessary for the Triumph of Evil is that Good Men Do Nothing–Edmund Burke

A republic is defined as a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president…

Our republic no longer exists because we have an omnipotent self centered clown in the Oval office who is as unconstitutional as anyone can be. Anyone thinkingwe still live in a republic had best take notice of what OUR elected officials are doing WITHOUT OUR consent. Our republic no longer exists because the people no longer have power!

…A democracy can best be described as two wolves and a sheep deciding what to have for lunch with a well armed sheep contesting the vote! This too shall be afond memory for our rubber stamp liberally controlled congress is eagerly waiting to disarm us.

Well, F.R., it’s been nice chatting with you, but I’ve got chores that need doin’ and critters that need feedin’, so I’ll catch up with you on another thread. Stay safe…

Vis Fac

I like your style and blog site I think if were were closer we could be close friends as our philosophies are quite similar.

Having considerable acreage and livestock I too have critters to feed and chores to tend to. As I age I find it harder to cope with the heat of the day and unless absolutely necessary put chores of until it cools down a might.

Schools should be privately administered and paid on performance much like a business the more production the greater the compensation.

Being a former business owner I cannot relate to having a pet or dead weight sapping assets from the business any family member that worked for the firm did not have the luxury of sloughing off because we worked the bonus system Personal needs were met by me and extra was subject to quarterly profits.

I gave bonuses based on past performance and profit margin over a and above operating costs and profit margins Usually everyone received a minimum of 5% bonus. As family were not compensated other than expenses and draws against profit bonus those bonuses were a bit higher and any draws repaid .

This was to deter the pet employee stigma. All my children have their own careers and are quite successful for how long is anyone’s guess

Should (I should say when) things go south in a hurry

we are ready with housing and supplies here in the boonies.

The Only Thing Necessary for the Triumph of Evil is that Good Men Do Nothing–Edmund Burke

A republic is defined as a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president…

Our republic no longer exists because we have an omnipotent self centered clown in the Oval office who is as unconstitutional as anyone can be. Anyone thinkingwe still live in a republic had best take notice of what OUR elected officials are doing WITHOUT OUR consent. Our republic no longer exists because the people no longer have power!

…A democracy can best be described as two wolves and a sheep deciding what to have for lunch with a well armed sheep contesting the vote! This too shall be afond memory for our rubber stamp liberally controlled congress is eagerly waiting to disarm us.

Libertas inaestimabilis res est

Semper-Fi

Combat Veteran Seabee

He needs to be dismantled this minute!!!!

oat21

This is why Americans can never give up and let them take or do away with the second amendment. We’ll always obey the law, but won’t ever roll over to Hitler or commie style tactics by local or federal government.

ray4433

Don’t act so surprised. Every Law enforcement agency is Paramilitary to some extent.

Vis Fac

The Only Thing Necessary for the Triumph of Evil is that Good Men Do Nothing–Edmund Burke

A republic is defined as a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president…Our republic no longer exists for we have become a police state with the people having no power over our elected officials …A democracy can best be described as two wolves and a sheep deciding what to have for lunch with a well armed sheep contesting the vote! Our democratic government is anything but Those in power fear the people to the extent of wanting us disarmed and at the mercy of the police state.

Libertas inaestimabilis res est

Semper-Fi

Ron

why do you think our military is spread so thin and so far away from the USA… The Anti-Christ …Barrack Satan Hussein Obama knows this is a great opportunity to take this country down and law enforcement will comply with the Gov’t.. We need to bring our sons and daughters back to the USA so at the right time we can join forces and oust ALL of Gov’t..Repub’s and Demo’s must go along with LE…. and like Egypt…the military, our sons and daughters, can maintain order until we can re-elect a honest moral Gov’t.. All foreigners should be sent back to their homelands where they can fight for their own freedom or die sitting on their azz’s waiting for entitlements and ObummerCare! Put all politicians in Gitmo and try them one at a time for crimes against the citizen’s of the USA. Good blacks, like good whites will join together and fight..like they did in the Civil War….while bad blacks and stupid whites will die trying to protect their Anti-Christ. This is a foregone conclusion that is in our near future!!!

The Truth

I live in a small town and back a few years ago they hired a young veteran who was an MP. One day he pulled me over after I pulled into my driveway. When I got out of my truck in MY driveway he began to yell at me and draw down on me!!! When I told him to lower his weapon or I would inform his grandmother (by name, as I know her and his whole family) he was caught totally off guard.

I then asked him “what the hell are you doing”? He told me there was a report of a vehicle like mine that they were looking for (more B.S. as I later checked with his superior).

My point is, U.S. Citizens have rights. We are NOT some private who has to bow down to his every whim without question. In civilian life he works for US, not the other way around. I see this as a bad road we are going down.

Semper Fi.

Charlie

American white males are mostly brainwashed regarding “Law” , “Rights” and the darkie males are even worse… So? where are these “Good guys” that are going to take over and rule with “Law”?? How many “Lies” do you have to “Think” are true before you are considered “brainwashed” ???

The Truth

Please clarify what you are trying to express. You say a whole lot of words that mean nothing.

Charlie

The Truth? ,,, give Me a list of the words I used , that mean “nothing”… We’re not going to buy you a Dictionary.How many lies do you have in your mind? … The “Truth” is NOT truth IF? any PER The Book lies can be shown…

Local cops don’t need that kind of muscle. If they have it, it’s NOT to deter an invasion; it’s to eventually turn it on YOU. Just like those 1.6 BILLION rounds of hollowpoint that DHS tucked away in the basement. Hollowpoints are illegal to use in a warfare scenario per the Geneva Convention, so those bullets cannot go overseas. So GUESS who they are eventually intended for?Now, how stupid is the federal government and DHS? Question to the firearms affectionados out there; how useless are hollowpoints in an urban warfare scenario? THEY DON’T PENETRATE HARD TARGETS, THEY DISINTEGRATE ON IMPACT PER DESIGN! Are they expecting us to just stand out in the open? If that was the case, then yes, hollowpoints would be outstanding! But urban warfare dictates you are gonna have folks firing on you from behind dumpsters, cars, around brick buildings, you name it. HELLO……..Meanwhile, it is estimated that the collective American gun owners of America have between 8 to 10 BILLION rounds of ammo on hand. And guess what? Most of that? Is FMJ…… Oops…….

three bars

Many different views voiced here, and that does my heart good.It’s apparent that the majority of citizens are fed up with the way things are, and we should be.

What we need to do is get into action and become the voice of many and not the voices of one. We still have power when we come together for a common cause, if you think otherwise, go back to the first few months of this year when all of the gun owners and citizens of conscience banded together and stopped the anti 2nd amendment legislation dead in it’s tracks.

I know, that battle is not over, but we learned that we can be a force to reckoned with.

How many of you write/email your representatives in DC, your state, and your local community.Lawmakers will stand up and do their job when they realize they will not be re-elected if they don’t.

We must find a way to come together, and that scares the crap out of the present administration. That’s the reason they play all the race cards and other tactics to keep us from joining ranks, and becoming a force to deal with.

Our country has a long proud history of our people coming together to affect change.

That’s my 2 cents…

DrLu

Hello, hello! Can we have a little reading comprehension quiz, please?

Q: According to this article, both here and at the Orlando Sentinel website, WHO actually said, “We are a paramilitary organization. . .”?

A: “the Sheriff’s Recruiting and Background Manager Mary Ann Salazar”

Mr. Bullard’s title, “Orange County, Florida Sheriff Blithely Proclaims: ‘We Are A Paramilitary Organization’,” is misleading. A more accurate title would be as follows: “Orange County, Florida Sheriff’s Office Manager Blithely Proclaims: ‘We Are A Paramilitary Organization’.”

O, be careful, little eyes, what you read. . . .

Charlie

DrLu ,,, good point ,,,but ,,, a point , no point … First you should teach how to use a dictionary ,,, most people on this site are “”Brainwashed”” and hardly know what the word means,,, let alone understand it’s meaning… For example , I dare say you are brainwashed , have you checked your own mind ?

DrLu

Dear Charlie:

Yes, Charlie, I do know how to use a dictionary; furthermore, being an educator (now retired), I have also taught others how to use a dictionary–even in colleges and universities. Did you consult pages such as the following before you wrote your false accusation against me? Please see: http://www.yourdictionary.com/brainwash#websters andhttp://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/brainwashed.

Charlie, I respectfully challenge you (and others) to actually READ my own articles which I have posted as a guest blogger before you attach the “brainwashed” label to me:

There are too many people who glance at a headline and/or skim through an article, jump to incorrect conclusions, and proceed to shoot from the hip, run off at the mouth, and/or type a too-hasty reply to a Comment on the Internet!

As an illustrative example of the point I’m trying to make (i.e., don’t jump to too-hasty conclusions), consider an incident in the history of ancient Israel, as recorded in Joshua 22:10-34 in the Old Testament of the Bible. This narrative can be read at http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshua%2022&version=NIV. (If you don’t like the NIV, you can also read from more than 40 other Bible versions/translations in English, as well as translations into many other languages, at the same website. The NIV happens to be the default at this site.)

The aforementioned incident can be summarized as follows: (Background setting: After their Exodus from 400 years of slavery in Egypt and 40 subsequent years of wandering in the desert, the Israelites were now taking possession of the land promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob[a.k.a. Israel].) When they came to the area allotted to them on the east side of the Jordan River, the people of the tribe of Reuben and the half-tribe of Manasseh built a huge altar there. When the people of the other tribes heard about that altar, they gathered to make war against their brethren. The majority accused the minority of a breach of faith and rebellion against God by building an unauthorized altar (i.e., not meeting the requirements previously specified in the Book of Leviticus and portions of the Book of Exodus). The minority group methodically explained that their altar was intended to be a witness or memorial rather than a place for sacrifices to God, i.e., “A Witness Between Us—that the Lord is God (verse 34).”

It should not be difficult for a careful reader to infer at least the following principle from the above-referenced story: “Don’t jump to unsupported or unwarranted conclusions!” Thus, I stand by what I wrote in my previous comment: Mr. Bullard’s title, “Orange County, Florida Sheriff Blithely Proclaims:‘We Are A Paramilitary Organization’,” is misleading. A more accurate title would be as follows: “Orange County, Florida Sheriff’s Office Manager Blithely Proclaims: ‘We Are A Paramilitary Organization’.”

It so happened that I read Mr. Bullard’s article soon after reading this article: http://www.shtfplan.com/headline-news/watch-marine-colonel-warns-homeland-security-is-pre-staging-gear-and-equipment_08152013. When I saw Mr. Bullard’s title, I at first thought, “Aha! This confirms what I’ve just read at the SHTF website.” No, Mr. Bullard, your title is MISLEADING. It is quite possible that the Office Manager was actually quoting the Sheriff, but it’s also possible that theManager was at liberty to elaborate in her own words. Supporting evidence for either position islacking here.

Internet Journalists, PLEASE be more responsible in your rhetoric!

Charlie

DrLu ,,, Sorry about stepping on your “”Pride”” ego ,,, but ,,, that’s My “Specialty” ,,, and ,,, diplomatic communication are My weakness… The Sheriff communications on being ParaMilitary is a “Dah” statement that has to be read between the lines,,, because ,,, most of us that have been watching the “C E G” ,,, corrupt evil government since we were teenagers and have spent time in The U S Military and know about some of the corruptions going on even in The U S Military Service also know that America is under “Martial Law Rule” since the days of U S Grant … Experiencing the above for over 50 years of Adult life is why I hit people with this “Brainwashing” issue…I am a has been victim of Baptist Churches brainwashing for about 40 years ,,, a friend at work pointed out one of the basic 3 lies in most American Churches and it took Me about 6 months of checking to realize the friend was right, and then about 6 years to get a “handle” on all the lies in My “Mind” , that are verycommon in most American minds…This was before PC’s were cheap and common,,, the company had PC’s but I did not need to use them much at work… Computers make education much faster ,,, BUT ,,, the lies on line also make brainwashing much faster… One’s education level has very little to do with being brainwashed,,, I have known 747 Airline Captains to be very brainwashed by “”Popularity Politics””… That was a Major factor in the A-320 crash at SFO , a few months back… A very good example of American corruption and brainwashing happened a few years back when the American public “Think” they elected the “crossbreed” mental midget that is now CEO of U S A Inc. ….Anyway,,, back to your world ,,, I’m happy that you have been a Teacher … The female Teacher treated Me very well in grade school , and I just fumbled thru , enjoyed the attention , and was not paying attention to getting an education and did not worry about grades much so long as I passed the course…Since you brought up some Bible issues , how did you become a ” Christian” according to The Bible? Give , book , chapter , verses etc… Thanks for your reply……

DrLu

Dear Charlie:

Might I also have perhaps stepped on at least a little toe of your ego?

But let’s admit that, of course, both of us have deviated from the original topic: “Orange County, Florida Sheriff Blithely Proclaims: ‘We Are A Paramilitary Organization’,” as posted by Ben Bullardon August 15, 2013, in reference to “Sheriff’s Office swears in 11 new deputies, looking for more,” as posted the same day @http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2013-08-15/news/os-new-deputies-orange-county 20130814_1_sheriff-jerry-demings-deputies-ocso. As I stated in my original Comment: Mr. Bullard’s title…is misleading. A more accurate title would be as follows:“Orange County, Florida Sheriff’s Office Manager Blithely Proclaims: ‘We Are A Paramilitary Organization’.” Both the Orlando Sentinel article and the excerpt which Mr. Bullard quoted clearly statethat it was “the Sheriff’s Recruiting and Background Manager Mary Ann Salazar” who said, “We are a paramilitary organization….” (Did you read the original article at the Sentinel website?)

For a journalist to misattribute a quotation is excusable if done inadvertently, but irresponsible if done knowingly. Either way, Mr. Bullard should “man up,” admit his error, and offer a correction. What neither of us can verify without further investigation is whether (1) the statement originated with Ms. Salazar, (2) she was quoting the Sheriff verbatim, or (3) she was merely paraphrasing the Sheriff’s words.

Charlie, I notice that you still have not answered the question that I posed in my reply to your earlier Comment: Did you actually consult a dictionary for a definition of “brainwashed,” the word that you used in accusing me? Did you actually read any of my articles posted at The Steady Drip blog (hyperlinked in my first reply to you)? If so, do you still think I have been “brainwashed”?

I have also been watching the “CEG [Corrupt Evil Government]” (your apt words) since I was a teenager. In fact, one of the two term papers that I wrote while in high school was on the tenets of communism. However, I had to wait until age 22 to be eligible to vote in a presidential election. With the exception of 1980 and 1984, I have had to hold my nose while marking my “choice” for POTUS (or mark a 3rd party candidate who had no real chance of winning)! I’m getting sick and tired of this routine! Trying to vote for “the lesser of two evils” is still voting for evil. I’m aJeffersonian-Madisonian Constitutionalist for sure and a “borderline-Libertarian”–if an online political preference quiz that I took a few years ago is reliable.

The Second Psalm (Bible, Old Testament) has a very apt description of corrupt evil governments: 1 Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? 2 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD and against his Anointed, saying, 3 “Let us burst their bonds apart and cast away their cords from us.” 4 He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord holds them in derision. . . .7 I will tell of the decree: The LORD said to me, “You are my Son; today I have begotten you. 8 Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession. . . .12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way, for his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all who take refuge in him. [Psalm 2:1-4, 7-8, 12, ESV @http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%202&version=ESV]

A passage in the Book of Acts (Bible, New Testament) identifies the “Son” mentioned in Psalm 2 as Jesus Christ: 32 And we bring you the good news that what God promised to the fathers, 33 this he has fulfilled to us their children by raising Jesus, as also it is written in the second Psalm, “‘You are my Son, today I have begotten you.’ [Acts 13:32-33, ESV @http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2013&version=ESV]

Furthermore, two passages in the Book of Hebrews (Bible, New Testament) identify the “Son” in Psalm 2 as Jesus Christ: 1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. 3 He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4 having becomeas much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. 5 For to which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my Son, today I have begotten you”? Or again, “I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son”? [Hebrews 1:1-5, ESV @ http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%201&version=ESV 5 So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, “You are my Son, today I have begotten you” [Hebrews 5:5, ESV @http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%205&version=ESV].

Now, Charlie, I am happy to answer your latest question–the one about how I became a Christian. I gradually came to realize that a girl who was trying to be “good” could never be good enough to meet God’s requirements [a][b]. God sent His Son Jesus to do for me what I am unable to do for myself, that is to be as perfect as God Himself [c]. Only God can be as perfect as God Himself. Jesus, when He walked this earth, declared Himself to be equal with God, a declaration which resulted in death by crucifixion for the crime of blasphemy against God [d] [e]. But death could nothold Him! He arose from death to prove that He had paid the penalty for the guilty ones (me and you and everybody else) [f] [g]. Therefore, 55 years ago this summer, I received Jesus Christ as my personal Savior from sin and invited Him to be Lord of my life; that is, I got on what is sometimes called “the Romans road” [h]. Since the Bible should always be read in context, I have hyperlinked to the respective contexts in all my biblical references.

[a] For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it. [James 2:10, ESV @http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%202&version=ESV];[b] All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. [Isaiah 53:6, ESV @http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2053&version=ESV];[c] You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect. [Matthew 5:48, ESV @http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%205&version=ESV];[d] 30 “I and the Father are one.” 31 The Jews picked up stones again to stone him. 32 Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father; for which of them are you going to stone me?” 33 The Jews answered him, “It is not for a good work that we are going to stone you but for blasphemy, because you, being a man, make yourself God.” [John 10:30-33, ESV @http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2010&version=ESV];[e] 32 And they were on the road, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them. And they were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. And taking the twelve again, he began to tell them what was to happen to him, 33 saying, “See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death and deliver him over to the Gentiles. 34 And they will mock him and spit on him, and flog him and kill him. And after three days he will rise.” [Mark 10:32-34];[f] …the gospel of God, 2 which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, 3 concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh 4 and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord [Romans 1:1-4, ESV @http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%201&version=ESV;[g] 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. [1 Peter 2:21-22, ESV @http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Peter%202&version=ESV][h] 8 But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); 9 because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. 11 For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him.13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” [Romans 10:8-13, ESV @http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans%2010&version=ESV].

Charlie

DrLU ,,, Thanks for your reply , Most Sherriff Lie when they think it’s needed… Our local Sheriff has been militarized since they came up with The “Swat Team” for gun control problems… That was about 30 years ago… Are you familiar with Randy Weaver case in Idaho … The US marshal swat team , murdered Randy’s young son one afternoon and the next day murdered Randy’s Wife…Randy and his family “Thought” they were real Christians, but , were only Judeo Christians , which are not PER TheBook Christians … Just do a word search on Randy Weaver and you will come up with his case……………………The local Churches , Judeo Christian type are more responsible for the Outlaw situations in the County… Because IF? “they” were “Real” Christians , they would have at least some Heavy Duty Prayer Powers……………The Book Procedure for becoming a “True” Christian is Declared by King Jesus Christ and His “Ranking” Men ,,, Peter was delegated special rank by King Jesus Christ at Matthew 16:19 …. Peter said what to do to get The Gift of The Holy Spirit at Acts 2:38 … Peter also verified Baptism is Salvation at 1 Peter 3:21… So? Acts 2:38 is “Complete” Salvation all in one Verse, it’s the only single verse that does that… Paul also calls out Baptism for Salvation ,,, but ,,, it’s in more than one verse,,, and Paul does NOT outrank Peter …. The people that Peter spoke to at Acts 2:38 were already “Believers “, so , being a believer is a given…………….Acts 2:38 is the routine way of “Salvation” , of course We know King Jesus Christ can give Salvation anyway He wants to , He did that at The Cross and also earned that “Right” at The Cross ….King Jesus Christ also verified Salvation by Baptism at John 3:5 , 3:22… Meanwhile… Praise King Jesus for Salvation and Healing… Your Friend……………………..

Charlie

What’s up Doc? don’t tell Me you went into “Cognitive Dissonance”? That’s what happens when you stepped on My little toe, ha ha … Your friend……………….

DrLu

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven. [Ecclesiastes 3:1]

Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you. [Matthew 7:6]

As I have already stated on this discussion thread, …both of us have deviated from the original topic: “Orange County, Florida Sheriff Blithely Proclaims: ‘We Are A Paramilitary Organization’,” as posted by Ben Bullard on August 15, 2013, in reference to “Sheriff’s Office swears in 11 new deputies, looking for more,” as posted the same day @http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2013-08-15/news/os-new-deputies-orange-county-20130814_1_sheriff-jerry-demings-deputies-ocso. As I stated in my original Comment: Mr. Bullard’s title…is misleading. A more accurate title would be as follows: “Orange County, Florida Sheriff’s Office Manager Blithely Proclaims: ‘We Are A Paramilitary Organization’.” Both the Orlando Sentinel article and the excerpt which Mr. Bullard quoted clearly state that it was “the Sheriff’s Recruiting and Background Manager Mary Ann Salazar” who said, “We are a paramilitary organization….”

I have already disclosed enough information for a smart sleuth to find my email address. Charlie, ifyou sincerely wish to continue a reasonable discussion with me, then go find my email address. On the other hand, if you are one of the “dogs” and/or “pigs” [a.k.a. “jerks”] to which Jesus referred in the passage quoted above–one who merely wants to goad me on–to continue our discussion would be a waste of my time.

Charlie

DrLu ,,, Well I certainly don’t want to waste your time writing about “”Truth””… Most likely the Orlando Sentinel is just another “Lying rag News Paper” as most are… How many “jerks” or “dogs” send you “Scripture” that is “”Harmonized”” with other Scriptures to arrive at a “Point”of “Truth” as Psalms 119:160 tells one to do???

Robert Messmer

Actually, the article states in the first sentence, the one before the inset, ” A Wednesday Orlando Sentinel report on a hiring spree at the burgeoning Orange County, Florida Sheriff’s Office quoted Sheriff Jerry Demings unironically describing his department as a “paramilitary organization.”” But yes, in the inset the quote is also attributed to Ms. Salazar. Investigative journalism at its best. Then again maybe BOTH the Sheriff and Ms. Salazar said the same thing.

DrLu

Hello, Robert:

Did you also read the source article @http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2013-08-15/news/os-new-deputies-orange-county-20130814_1_sheriff-jerry-demings-deputies-ocso? That article does NOT quote the sheriff as having said what Mr. Bullard attributes to him.

Chris

I Agree Liberty Zone!!

1baronrichsnot1

Orange county sheriff goes parastupid! That should be the message, just who in society needs paramilitary protection? Is it him? Is it the gov’t? What was the status quo in 2006, is now old hat, and we now need paramilitary trigger happy, door busting, home invading, urban warfare trained military folks to keep order? Are we stealing information, starting illegal wars, killing our own citizens, spying on each other, stealing our neighbors money, filing eronious lawsuits? No! our gov’t is doing that. Is the orange county sheriff going to protect the people or enforce gov’t policy! I believe that is the question to ask. BATF, FBI, DHS, NSA, IRS, all gone rogue! Where do you stand mr. Blithely?

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